8 ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR Bathroom Remodel
With the wide variety of fixtures to choose from, bathrooms and powder rooms can be fun to design, but they can also be challenging. Make sure you understand the basics of fitting and fixture selections with these tips from Signature Hardware.
1. BATHTUB: Measure the space carefully. This will prevent major headaches after the tub is already on site. Account for any extra space you need for a freestanding tub filler or other items that will be placed near the tub.
2. TUB FAUCET: Tub and bathroom sink faucets are not interchangeable. Water flow rates, installation types and thermostatic controls are qualities that separate them.
3. SHOWERHEADS: Consider the material. Brass is a highquality material that rarely needs replacing and resists rust and corrosion. Stainless steel is low maintenance and easy to clean and retains its luster over time. Porcelain is an excellent choice for a vintage-style bathroom and is often used in custom makeovers.
4. VANITY: Think about size. If you’re remodeling a master suite, a double-sink vanity (generally 60 to 72 inches wide) will offer separate areas in a shared bathroom. For a guest bath, you’ll likely use a single vanity (generally 18 to 48 inches wide). For very small bathrooms, a corner, wallmount or narrow-depth vanity will be the key to utilizing your space. 5. TOILETS: The toilet rough-in refers to the distance from the finished wall to the center of the toilet’s floor drain or waste outlet. Most bathrooms have a rough-in of 12 inches, although older homes might have 10 or 14 inches. Take the time to measure, and be sure the toilet you purchase is compatible.
6. TUB DRAIN: Much like bathroom drains, tub drains are available in a variety of styles (press and seal, lift and turn, etc.). They’re also available with or without overflow openings. Overflow requirements are typically determined by city and/or state building codes. Check the local codes in your area before starting a renovation.
7. BATHROOM FAUCET: Make sure the installation type is compatible with your sink. Most faucets are designed to fit predrilled holes, but some may require special installation and plumbing.
8. BATHROOM SINK DRAINS: Drains can be with or without overflow openings. An overflow opening is a small hole drilled in the top of the threaded portion of the drain that allows overflow water from the sink to enter the drainpipe. If your sink features an overflow, it is very important to purchase a drain with an overflow opening. If your sink doesn’t have an overflow, it cannot be paired with a drain with an overflow opening.
Outdoor dining in the warmer months is a must. But it doesn’t have to be a grand production. “At our ranch in Montana, we spend many evenings eating meals on the porch,”says blogger Karen Snyder of Sanctuary Home Décor. “This often happens at the last minute as the weather changes quickly.” Here are some of Karen’s expert tips for a beautiful outdoor table that doesn’t take too much prep.
PLAN AHEAD
First, keep things simple by using what you already have on hand. This doesn’t mean you can’t build out your tablescape beforehand, but you don’t want to be shopping for chargers and a tablecloth when the weather is right and you could be spending time with your family outdoors. For example, Karen uses placemats she already had stashed away. “For this outdoor table, I used beautiful leaf placemats that I keep on hand,” she says. Think ahead of time about what you need for your table so you have everything when you want it.